All the trimmings

For fifth year, local restaurant opens its doors to the community for free Thanksgiving dinner

November 21, 2012

As cooks around Hamilton County are planning their Thanksgiving feast for family and friends, Joy Fopma is planning a turkey day meal for as many as 500 guests.

For the fifth year now, Whoop-Ti-Doos and La-Ti-Daas, Fopma's restaurant in downtown Webster City, is hosting a community Thanksgiving dinner. She said anyone who is looking for a place to have dinner on Thursday is welcome to come.

"Anyone can come. Everyone is welcome to join us," said Fopma. She said she looks forward to the dinner each year and says the free meal is a way "to honor the Lord and to show love to people."

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Volunteers Chris Dingman and David Borer dish up Thanksgiving dinner at the 2011 Community Thanksgiving dinner hosted by Whoop-ti-Doos and La-Ti-Daas. Organizers said they are planning for up to 500 people this year.

Fopma doesn't do all of the work herself. Along with her family there are approximately 50 volunteers from all over who help with the event. Some are even preparing turkeys today for the meal tomorrow, she said. With 20 to 25 turkeys, dozens of pies and all of the other traditional Thanksgiving fare, Fopma said no one should go hungry.

"We're in good shape for Thursday," she said. "We're working on all the last minute details now. We have our donations and are volunteers are all in place."

The meal is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at Whoop-Ti-Doos and La-Ti-Daas, 629 Second St. Those attending can either dine in the restaurant, carryout meals or have meals delivered. Fopma said she encouraged those who want meals delivered to call ahead, 832-3663.